Posted April 5, 2018

The faithful of the parish in Exton, Chester County celebrated the most solemn liturgy of the year March 31 at the Easter Vigil Mass. Catholics around the world celebrated the evening liturgy that marked the resurrection of Christ from the dead and his triumph of light over the darkness of sin and death, for all humanity. Msgr. Joseph Dieckhaus, pastor of SS. Philip and James, led the liturgy and welcomed into the Catholic faith through the sacraments of baptism, Eucharist and confirmation his newest parishioner, Brendon Gillespie. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • Father Joseph Dieckhaus pins the sign of the cross into the new paschal candle that was blessed at the Easter Vigil Mass.

  • Parishioners each hold a candle during the service of light, the opening rite of the Easter Vigil Mass.

  • Father Joseph Dieckhaus incenses the paschal candle.

  • Betty Zencak

  • Father Joseph Dieckhaus baptizes Brendon Gillespie.

  • Father Joseph Dieckhaus confirms Brendon Gillespie with his sponsor and fiance Melanie Smith by his side.

  • From left, Ralph, Dominic, Kristin and Juliana Gifoli pray together during Mass.

  • Father Joseph Dieckhaus sprinkles the congregation with holy water.

  • Father Joseph Dieckhaus consecrates the Eucharist while Deacon Charles W. Polley Jr. assists at the altar.

  • Brendon Gillespie and Melanie Smith

  • Diana, Zachary and Jesu Mathew